The Maldives has officially barred individuals holding Israeli passports from entering the country after President Dr Mohamed Muizzu ratified the Third Amendment to the Maldives Immigration Act on Tuesday. The legislation, which passed swiftly through Parliament on the same day, explicitly prohibits entry for Israeli passport holders—a move the government describes as a direct response to Israel's "ongoing atrocities and acts of genocide against the Palestinian people".
The decision comes as the government reaffirms its "enduring commitment to the promotion and protection of Palestinian rights". In a statement issued by the President's Office, officials condemned Israel's actions against the Palestinian people and pledged to push for accountability in international forums, citing violations of international law.
President Dr Muizzu has repeatedly expressed support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, advocating for borders based on pre-1967 lines and East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with United Nations resolutions and international legal principles. His administration has maintained that Israel’s policies in the Occupied Palestinian Territories have undermined regional stability and obstructed prospects for a lasting resolution to the conflict.
Over the years, the Maldives has issued strong denunciations of Israeli actions, reinforcing its "unwavering and unconditional support" for Palestinians in their pursuit of self-determination and other "inalienable rights". The government stands by the belief that a two-state solution—one that ensures Palestinian sovereignty—is the only viable path to lasting peace.
The president's action comes amid intensifying concerns over civilian casualties in Gaza. According to Gaza's Health Ministry, at least 50,983 Palestinians have been killed and 116,274 wounded since Israel launched its military offensive on 7 October 2023. The Government Media Office in Gaza has since updated the death toll to more than 61,700, citing thousands of individuals presumed dead beneath the rubble.